THOMAS TOWNSHIP, MI — As unusually cold temperatures blow into the region, even traditional winter activities are being cancelled.

Apple Mountain ski resort near Freeland has been closed since Monday Jan. 27 because of the unusually low temperatures. According to Kathy Schofield, Apple Mountain marketing director, the resort plans to open at 4 p.m. Wednesday if temperatures rise.

“It’s a beautiful Michigan day with lots and lots of snow, but unfortunately the weather is dangerous for our guests and staff,” Schofield said. “When the wind picks up and drives the temperatures down, that really plays a large factor in whether we stay open.”

Schofield commented on the irony of the situation and said even though mild winters bring wishes of more snow at the resort, the employees are now wishing for slightly warmer temperatures so people can take advantage of the snow.

“We’ve have had exceptional year because of snow,” Schofield said. “This is an unusual winter in that the type of snow has really excited the winter sports enthusiasts. We’ve seen a huge increase in skiers and snowboarders.”

In the past, Apple Mountain closed because of rain. Schofield has worked at the resort for 20 years, but said she can’t remember ever closing for the cold.

“This is truly an old-fashioned Michigan winter, although I can’t ever remember it being this cold,” Schofield said.

Have the low temperatures affected your wintery plans? Tell us in the comments section below.